Optimization of Extraction Technique and Structure Characterization of Cellulose from Corn Bran

On the basis of single factor experiments, the extraction process of corn bran cellulose was optimized by response surface methodology. The microscopic morphology, chemical structure, crystal structure and thermal stability of corn bran cellulose were respectively characterized by SEM, FTIR, XRD and TGA. The results showed that, the optimal conditions were the solid/liquid ratio 1:20 g/mL, extraction temperature 96℃, extraction time 2.6 h, HNO₃ volume fraction 27%. Under these conditions, the content of cellulose extracted from corn bran was 80.26%±0.88%. The results of characterization by SEM, FTIR, XRD and TGA showed that hemicellulose and lignin were effectively removed from corn bran;the crystalline form of corn bran cellulose remained unchanged and remained I type, the crystallinity was 56%;the thermal decomposition starting temperature was 222℃, and thermal stability was better than corn bran. The optimized corn bran cellulose extraction process was feasible and had broad application prospects in industry.